ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- Damian Sonsire has officially launched his campaign to become the next Chemung County Court Judge on Tuesday night at the Federal Building in Downtown Elmira.

Sonsire is seeking to replace former County Judge Christopher Baker who was recently elected to take over as a New York Supreme Court Justice. The Horseheads native spent over a decade working for the District Attorney's office, handling many high profile criminal cases. Sonsire has spent the last two years working in the Chemung County Attorney's office handling and prosecuting family cases. He said he'll be able to bring his experience, trying both criminal and family case, to the bench. Sonsire said that even as a prosecutor, you're forced to look at both sides of a case and relevant facts.

“I think the important thing is people realize how critical the right candidate is to run for Chemung County Court Judge, it's a 10-year term, it's a very important position for our community, and I think the people that have come out to support me, recognize that I have the skill set to take that position on day one and hit the ground running.” said Sonsire.

Sonsire also said with his background as judge, he'll be able to remain fair and impartial.